Confucius was a giant of a philosopher, up there with the likes of Socrates, Aristotle, and Buddha. His teachings have been fundamental to Chinese and East Asian culture for some 2,500 years, and remain highly influential today. Confucianism emphasizes morality and traditional values, including justice, kindness, sincerity, and respect for one’s elders. The philosopher was also a strong believer in the value of effort. For Confucius, trying your best to achieve something was of greater importance than the goal itself.